Zesty Cheesy Fiesta Rice Bake
Elevate your meal experience with this Zesty Cheesy Fiesta Rice Bake! Bursting with flavor from tomatoes and green chilies, this dish combines the creamy richness of sour cream and the melty goodness of cheddar cheese. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a hearty side dish, this rice bake is easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, its vibrant colors make it a visually appealing addition to your dinner table. Enjoy it as a main course or a flavorful side, and savor the fiesta in every bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Instant rice
3 cups (uncooked)
Water
3 cups (none)
Diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 (10 ounce) can (undrained)
Chicken bouillon granule
1 tablespoon (none)
Sour cream
3/4 cup (none)
Shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups (divided)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked instant rice, water, undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken bouillon granule. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
2
Transfer the rice mixture into a greased microwave-safe dish, ensuring it is spread evenly.
3
Cover the dish loosely with a microwave-safe lid or wrap and microwave on high for 10 minutes.
4
After microwaving, carefully remove the dish and gently stir in the sour cream and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
5
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the rice mixture.
6
Cover the dish again and microwave for an additional 45 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7
Let it sit for a few minutes, then serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Zesty Cheesy Fiesta Rice Bake?
It is a flavorful side dish or main course made with instant rice, diced tomatoes, green chilies, sour cream, and cheddar cheese.
What kind of rice should I use for this recipe?
This recipe specifically requires 3 cups of uncooked instant rice to ensure it cooks properly in the microwave.
Do I need to cook the rice before mixing the ingredients?
No, the recipe uses uncooked instant rice which cooks during the microwaving process.
How much water is needed?
You will need 3 cups of water to properly hydrate the instant rice.
What size can of diced tomatoes is required?
The recipe calls for one 10-ounce can of diced tomatoes with green chilies.
Should I drain the tomatoes before adding them?
No, the tomatoes should be undrained as the liquid helps cook the rice.
What provides the savory base flavor for the rice?
One tablespoon of chicken bouillon granules provides the primary seasoning.
How much sour cream is used in this dish?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of sour cream to create a creamy texture.
What type of cheese is recommended?
Shredded cheddar cheese is recommended for its melting quality and flavor.
How much cheese is needed in total?
A total of 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese is used, divided into two parts.
Is this recipe made in the oven or microwave?
This is a microwave-safe dish recipe designed for quick preparation.
How long is the initial microwave cooking time?
The rice mixture should be microwaved on high for 10 minutes initially.
Should the dish be covered while microwaving?
Yes, cover the dish loosely with a microwave-safe lid or wrap during the 10-minute cook time.
When do I add the sour cream and the first portion of cheese?
Stir in the sour cream and 1/2 cup of cheese after the initial 10-minute microwave cycle.
How long do I microwave the dish after adding the final cheese topping?
Microwave for an additional 45 seconds to melt the cheese.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
The recipe tags include vegetarian, but ensure you use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon to meet strict vegetarian requirements.
Can I use regular long-grain rice instead of instant rice?
Regular rice is not recommended for this specific recipe as it requires a much longer cooking time and more liquid than the microwave instructions provide.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute for sour cream.
How do I prevent the rice from being too dry?
Ensure you use the full 3 cups of water and do not drain the liquid from the canned tomatoes.
Can I add extra protein to this rice bake?
Yes, you can stir in cooked shredded chicken, ground beef, or black beans when you add the sour cream.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a 'zesty' flavor from the green chilies, but it is generally mild. Use 'Hot' diced tomatoes if you prefer more heat.
Can I make this in a regular oven?
Yes, you can bake it at 350 degrees F, though you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time (typically 20-30 minutes) compared to the microwave version.
What size microwave-safe dish should I use?
A 2-quart or larger microwave-safe casserole dish is recommended to prevent boil-over.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the Zesty Cheesy Fiesta Rice Bake?
Freezing is possible, but the texture of the sour cream may change slightly upon thawing and reheating.
How do I reheat the rice?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the rice moist.
What are good serving suggestions?
It pairs well with tacos, fajitas, grilled chicken, or can be eaten alone as a light lunch.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend cheese would also work well.
What should I do if the bouillon granules don't dissolve?
Make sure to stir the mixture thoroughly before the first microwave cycle to help the bouillon distribute.
Why should I let the dish sit before serving?
Letting it sit for a few minutes allows the rice to finish absorbing any remaining moisture and helps the flavors meld.